Philadelphia Police Chief Search

The search is on for a new police chief in Philadelphia. Chief William Cox, who was appointed in November 2012, handed in his resignation Tuesday night, He's the second chief to leave the position within the last year.

As with his predecessor, Chief Richard Sistrunk, Cox says he was very happy with the department and is only leaving for personal reasons.

"This was not me looking for another position, or shopping for jobs. I was content where I was. It was just an opportunity that opened to me and I just felt like it was the best thing to do."

After a month of contemplating, Cox accepted an offer to return to the department where he started his law enforcement career. In September he will return to North Mississippi and the Olive Branch Police Department as the head of the investigative unit.

"It's a surprise to me and the rest of the administration," says Mayor James Young, "but a man has to do what a man has to do when it comes to a man and his family and his profession, and I think Chief Cox made that decision."

Looking to the future, Mayor Young plans to recommend Assistant Chief Julian Greer for the position.

"Assistant Chief Greer was the second choice about a year and a half ago. From where I sit, I think he should be given the opportunity to step up to that position," says Young.

It will ultimately be up to the Philadelphia Board of Alderman to decide whether or not to accept the mayor's recommendation for the position. At this time there's no word on when a final decision will be made.

"A year and a half ago we saw what the market brought us. We interviewed several quality men; for some our salary was too low. Right now we have to look at that issue as we go back out," says Young.

Chief William Cox's resignation will take effect August 30th. As for Assistant Chief Greer, he's a 20-year-old veteran with the department. The salary for police chief in Philadelphia is roughly $41,000 a year.

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